Health Information

Eosinophilic Esophagitis—Child

Definition

Eosinophilic esophagitis is an inflammation in the esophagus due to an overreaction of the immune system. The esophagus is the tube that delivers food from your mouth to your stomach. The swelling can make it difficult to swallow.

Causes

Eosinophilic esophagitis is caused by the presence of eosinophils in the esophagus tissue. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that are part of the immune system associated with allergies. These cells are not normally found in the esophagus. High amount of eosinophils can cause swelling in the tissue.

It is not completely clear why eosinophils appear in the esophagus. It is believed to be associated with a reaction to environmental or food allergens.

Risk Factors

Eosinophilic esophagitis is more common in males but can occur in females.

Heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can also cause swelling and similar symptoms. However, the swelling should decrease once the heartburn is managed. The swelling will continue with eosinophilic esophagitis.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your child’s symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

If eosinophilic esophagitis is suspected or the cause of symptoms is not clear the doctor may recommend an endoscopy. An endoscopy uses a special scope to view the tissue of the esophagus. The doctor can also take samples of tissue, called a biopsy, from the esophagus. The sample is then examined at a lab, where eosinophils can be seen.

Your child may also be sent to a specialist for diagnosis or treatment.

Treatment

Eosinophilic esophagitis cannot be cured but certain steps can help manage the symptoms. Options include:

Identifying and Avoiding Allergens

Eating certain foods or swallowing and inhaling allergens like mold, pollen, or dust can worsen swelling. Skin prick testing, patch tests, and blood tests may help identify specific food and environmental allergies. An elimination diet may also help determine if foods are causing the swelling. This type of diet works best if supervised by a dietitian or physician.

It’s not always possible to avoid environmental allergens but steps can be taken to decrease exposure. Avoiding trigger foods may also help manage eosinophilic esophagitis.

Medication

There is no specific treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis. Medications that may be used include:

Steroid medications may help control swelling in the esophagus.

Oral steroids may be used for severe reactions.

Swallowing of inhaled forms of steroids may help milder symptoms or ongoing treatment.

Proton pump inhibitors to control acid production if gastroesophageal reflux disease is also present, which decreases inflammation and eosinophils

Eosinophilic esophagitis. American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology website. Available at: http://acaai.org/allergies/types/food-allergies/types-food-allergy/eosinophilic-esophagitis. Accessed August 22, 2017.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.